Akira (1988), directed by Katsuhiro Otomo, is more than just a famous anime movie—it’s a key part of anime history that has influenced both the animation industry and how people around the world see anime. As one of the films that helped make anime popular outside Japan, Akira is still worth watching today, even more than 30 years after it first came out. But does it still feel fresh today?
I believe it’s a movie that truly deserves its status as one of the greats. While the story can be tough to follow and some parts might feel a bit old, the movie’s strengths make it more than worth watching. The ambition and creativity of Akira, both in its story and its animation, are truly impressive. The film does an incredible job of showing a world in chaos while also telling a touching story about friendship, power, and what it means to be human.
In today’s Time, where anime is more popular than ever, Akira is a reminder of how it all began—a bold, visionary work of art that continues to inspire and make people think. Whether you’re a long-time anime fan or new to it, Akira is a must-watch. Its impact on anime and its relevance today make it a timeless classic that’s still worth watching now, just like it was in 1988.
A Dark and Exciting Story
Akira is set in a future version of Tokyo in the year 2019. The story follows two friends, Shotaro Kaneda and Tetsuo Shima, who are part of a biker gang. They get caught up in a huge mess involving the government, psychic powers, and the threat of the city’s destruction. The movie begins with a massive explosion that destroys Tokyo, leading to the creation of Neo-Tokyo, a city filled with corruption, unrest, and the fear of another disaster.
The story explores deep themes like power, friendship, and the desire to control things. Tetsuo’s change from a regular teenager to someone with dangerous psychic powers is the heart of the film. It shows how power can be dangerous and how friendships can be tested when things get out of control.
Stunning and Ahead of Its Time
One of the best things about Akira is its animation. Even today, the visuals are amazing. The way the characters move, the detail in every scene, and the early use of computer graphics were groundbreaking at the time. The dark, neon-lit world of Neo-Tokyo is shown with incredible detail, making every scene feel alive.
Some scenes, like Kaneda’s famous motorcycle slide, have become iconic and have influenced many other movies, shows, and games. The care and effort put into every part of “Akira” make it a visual masterpiece that still impresses viewers.
Complex and Deep Story
Akira is not a simple movie to watch. The story is complex, and the fast pace can be overwhelming, especially for people who haven’t read the original manga by Otomo. The movie only covers part of the 2,182-page manga, so the story can be hard to follow at times.
However, this complexity is what makes Akira so interesting. The film challenges viewers to think deeply about its themes and characters, rewarding those who pay close attention to the story.
Cultural Impact
Akira played a big role in introducing anime to audiences around the world, especially in the West. Its influence can be seen in many movies and shows that came after it, like The Matrix, as well as in modern anime that explore similar themes of dark futures and deep questions. For many people, Akira was their first taste of Japanese animation, helping to open the door to anime’s global success.
